CSU preview: Linebacking potentially a dominant force

Colorado State linebacker Alex Williams (51) drags down Colorado's Scotty McKnight in last year's game in Boulder. Williams will be a key player for the Rams this season. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

In the seventh part of a series of look-aheads at Colorado State’s 2010 season, broken down by units, we look at the Rams’ linebacking corps…

Newcomers: Mike Orakpo, although technically a true freshman, signed with the 2009 class, enrolled late and had the benefit of spring ball as a safety. He will get on the field even though the two outside linebackers, Ricky Brewer and Mychal Sisson, are the two best players on the defense.

Biggest losses: Again, a technicality, but Davis Burl moves to defensive end where he will likely start.

Strengths: The defensive strength going into the season although the defensive line has exceeded all expectations. Middle linebacker Alex Williams has had an outstanding camp. Orakpo provides an outstanding rotation.

Weaknesses: Brewer’s ineligibility and an injury epidemic made the linebackers the weakest defensive link a year ago. Some of the depth still needs to be proven.

What to look for: For the first time since before current defensive coordinator/linebackers coach Larry Kerr left following the 2002 season, season CSU has a chance to establish a dominating linebacking corps.